Growing Asparagus for 1st time - Knowledgebase Question

No. Weymouth, MA
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Question by USXM30A
April 25, 1998
We are planting Asparagus (Mary Washington) from seed for the first time. 1. someone told us not to cut beyond July. True? 2. how tall does it grow. 3. what type of protection needed during winter. 4. will it do well in sun/shade location about 5 ft away from onions. 5. I soaked the seeds for 24 hrs as your seed package said, and have them under lights, no draft. planted 4 days ago. when can we expect to see growth. 6. What do we do for the 1st season. 7. feeding? 8. type of soil?


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Answer from NGA
April 25, 1998
1. Once the bed is established, you can harvest for up to 8 weeks. After that, let all shoots mature to store energy for next year. July sounds about right.

2. The ferny foliage can grow to 4 feet tall.

3. In the fall, cut down the browned fronds, and mulch with straw or leaves

4. The site should have at least 1/2 day of sun. No problem with onions nearby.

5. Germination usually takes between 14 and 21 days.

6. Once you've planted them in the garden, keep the soil evenly moist, and let them grow! Keep the bed well-weeded.

7. If you have good, fertile soil, a fall application to the planting bed, before laying down straw/leaves, should be adequate. You might want to have a soil test done, to evaluate nutrient levels and pH. Test results will include directions for amending soil if necessary.

8. Asparagus likes a moderately rich sandy or loamy soil, rather than heavy clay, with a pH of 6.5 to 7.5. The site should be well-drained, and not be exposed to strong winds.

Hope this helps!

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